Undercurrent: Christmas gifts, direct from the maker

Posted on 14 November, 2018

Every November, the National Portrait Gallery fills with the buzz of activity as Undercurrent Design Market sets up shop.

But while the market is perfectly timed and primed for Christmas gifting (as well as a few special treats for oneself, of course), there’s more going on beneath the surface.

Taking place across 23 to 25 November, this will be Undercurrent’s ninth year, and in that time it hasn’t deviated in purpose—to connect Canberrans with talented and unique makers. For founders Richard Baz and wife Mel O’Hanlon, this maker-to-buyer format is the heart of the event.

If you’re a design-loving Canberran you’re probably already familiar with Rich and Mel’s impeccable taste from their Curatoreum stores at the National Portrait Gallery, National Arboretum and, most recently, NewActon. But for the stylish pair, Undercurrent represents a chance for Canberrans to connect with a broad range of local and interstate makers, face-to-face.

“The idea was simply to bring them all here and give them a vehicle to sell,” says Richard. “It’s the idea of shopping local and shopping directly from the maker.”

And that means visitors to Undercurrent have the opportunity to discuss their favourite items and form a connection with not only the wares, but the makers themselves.

“That’s something really special,” says Rich, adding that these connections can lead to longstanding relationships long after the market is finished. “So, if people come and see the makers and they don’t have something specific there, they can chat about connecting in the future.”

“A lot of it’s about slowing down. We’re always about going fast and everyone’s looking to technology but the beautiful thing about our makers is that it’s a slow process and people understand that.

“It’s that love of what they do going into each piece. We find it a celebration of what people do.”

So, who can you look forward to seeing at Undercurrent this month? Rich gives us a sneak peek.

NEWCOMERS

MARCELLE

Marcelle makes gorgeous, handcrafted vessels and pots, perfect for hosting a family of cacti or summer blooms.

“The wonderful dyeing of the cement and the little imperfections add to the patina,” explains Rich. “Her sensitivity of aesthetic is wonderful too.”

GEOFF MCCANN

As Rich puts it, “they’re just completely outrageous” and there’s probably no better way to describe Geoff McCann’s jewellery. Loud, festive and created with recycled materials, his earrings are the perfect accessory for summer.

ESTELLE

Credit: Lily Pedvin

Colourful, versatile and timeless, Estelle’s scarves are the perfect gift for anyone aged five to 95. Need another excuse? She’s an ex-Canberran.

PIP KEANE

A fine silversmith with an eye for simple yet intricate detail, Richard points out that Pip Keane trained one of Canberra’s favourite jewellers, Alison Jackson, at the start of Alison’s career.

Pip will be bringing a range of necklaces and earrings to Undercurrent, including studs, hoops, rendered in silver and pearls.

SCOOP DESIGNS

Looking for sustainably made and adorable kid’s gifts? Scoop Designs deliver in spades, as well as offering colourful laser cut jewellery with a retro twist for grown-ups.

PRESTON ZLY

“Joanna Preston is a shoemaker from Melbourne who creates stunning designs,” explains Richard. “They’re all handmade and one-off designs, created by Joanna herself.”

MISSY MINZY

For the stationery obsessed in your life, look no further than Missy Minzy. Her hand-illustrated notebooks, stickers, cards and even temporary tattoos are the perfect Kris Kringle gift or hamper filler.

RETURNING

High Tea with Mrs Woo

As for returning makers, there are many, with highlights including layered handmade clothing from High Tea with Mrs Woo, gorgeous silver jewellery from Alison Jackson and patron saint of Canberra bus shelters, Trevor Dickinson.

As with every year, the Friday night will a festive occasion with a bar and live music performed by Mickey Sulit.

See the website for the full line up of makers appearing at Undercurrent 2018.

the essentials  

What: Undercurrent Design Market 2018
When: Friday 23 November from 5 – 8 pm and Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 November from 10 am – 5 pm
Where: National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes
More information: Via Facebook

This is a sponsored editorial. For more information on sponsored editorials, click here.